Bernadette Peters spent last Sunday night, Feb. 24, dining with President George W. Bush and various assorted politicians from the 50 states. Of course, the Broadway star had to sing for her supper, as she was the evening's entertainment for the White House gathering of Governors and Trustees.

Peters—who had previously entertained former President Bill Clinton's White House—used the opportunity to try out a few selections from her new CD, "Bernadette Peters Loves Rodgers and Hammerstein." Among the favored tunes were "It's a Grand Night for Singing," "Mr. Snow," "It Might as Well Be Spring," "Some Enchanted Evening," "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "There Is Nothing Like a Dame."

The last song received an especially warm reception, particularly from President Bush, who later Fed-Exed the singer his compliments regarding the bawdy "South Pacific" number.

"Bernadette Peters Loves Rodgers and Hammerstein" will be released on March 12 on the Angel label.

The album is arranged and conducted by Jonathan Tunick and produced by Richard Jay-Alexander and Tunick. Peters new stage role will be as Mama Rose in Gypsy. The show will bow on Broadway in spring 2003.